Congressman Carter Statement on Kristi Noem’s Removal

NEW ORLEANS, LA - Today, Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr. (D-LA) released the following statement:

"Today's announcement that Kristi Noem will no longer serve as Secretary of Homeland Security reflects what communities across this country have been demanding for months: accountability.

"Under her leadership, the Department of Homeland Security and ICE repeatedly carried out aggressive immigration operations without proper coordination with local leaders, disregarded due process, and created fear and instability in communities that deserve respect and protection under the law.

"In New Orleans, we brought these concerns directly to the public during a congressional field hearing where residents, legal advocates, and local officials testified about the real impact these actions were having on families and neighborhoods. At that hearing, we made our position clear. The pattern of conduct coming from DHS leadership had become unacceptable, and we called for Secretary Noem's removal.

"Today's decision underscores an important truth. Even when Democrats do not control the votes in Congress, accountability can still prevail when the three pillars of our democracy work together: Congress, the courts, and the community.

"The announcement that Senator Markwayne Mullin will be nominated to lead the Department of Homeland Security does not end the need for vigilance. Senator Mullin has publicly applauded many of the very practices under Secretary Noem that raised serious concerns across the country. His appointment does not erase those concerns.

"Congress will be watching closely, and we will not hesitate to hold this new leadership accountable if those same harmful practices continue.

"Oversight matters. The rule of law matters. And the voices of the people matter.

"There is still much work ahead. Our nation deserves immigration and homeland security policies that keep Americans safe while honoring the Constitution, protecting civil rights, and treating every person with dignity.

"That remains the standard we will continue to fight for."

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